WASCD Board of Directors
The Board of Directors constitute the governing body of WASCD, responsible for ensuring that WASCD policies, programs and services are implemented consistent with WASCD values and beliefs.
Executive Committee Board Members 2022-2023
Rob Meyer - President
Rob Meyer serves the Beaver Dam Unified School District as the Director of Teaching & Learning. He has previously served in education as a Social Studies Educator, Assistant Principal, and Principal.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"I am proud to serve WASCD as I believe in the power of sharing learning, supporting colleagues, and making a difference in kids lives through collaboration."
Kurt Krizan - Immediate Past President
Kurt Krizan is currently the Interim Superintendent for the Shawno School District. He has previous experience as an educator, coorindator, and Director of Teaching & Learning.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"Joining WASCD has provided me with an opportunity to surround myself with other professionals who are focused on improving teaching and learning for ALL students in the state of Wisconsin. I am thankful to be a part of an organization that helps make me a better educator."
Ryan Ruggles - Vice President
Ryan currently serves as the Director of Curriculum & Instruction for the School District of Milton. Previously he was a principal at the secondary levels, most recently at an international school in Doha, Qatar. Ryan is a strong student advocate and loves teaching the "how" of good instruction. In addition to his full-time role, Ryan does consulting work as part of Compass Educational Leadership
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
WASCD has a great opportunity to transform education in Wisconsin, and I believe we could have a major impact on the schools and students of our state. As a servant leader, I want to not only support great schools in my own community but also in the entire state. Through collaboration and with a continuous improvement mindset, this organization can be a difference-maker.
Gayle Daniel - Treasurer
Resource Management Committee Chair
Gayle Daniel is currently an Elementary Principal and Curriculum Coordinator with the School District of Rhinelander. For the last 20+ years she also has served the children of WI as an elementary teacher, worked with Deaf & Hard of Hearing students, Curriculum Director and supporter of all children.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"Becoming a member of this supportive organization was an easy decision. Surrounding oneself with positive people that are dedicated to improving opportunities and experiences for educators and students in WI will allow me to grow as an educational leader and deliver core values that create passionate life – long learners of all ages."
Kelly Seichter - Secretary
Kelly Seichter is the Director of Curriculum & Instruction for the Whitewater School District. She is currently serving on the WASCD Program Committee. She’s previously been an elementary principal in the Mineral Point School District, the Reading Specialist and Gifted/Talented Coordinator for the Monroe School District and has had the pleasure of being a classroom teacher in all grades K-6 across several school districts.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
“WASCD is an important organization whose mission goes to the heart of the important work educators do. Being a part of this worthy network has benefited me greatly. Not only have I gained colleagues to network with across the state, but I also have the opportunity to contribute to the greater educational community.”
Maria Kucharski - WASCD Executive Director
Questions about our organization. Contact Me! director@wascd.org
Maria Kucharski has worked in education the past 25 years within a variety of capacities. She is currently the Director of Curriculum and Instruction in Merton Community School District. She has also served as the Director of Teaching and Learning in Whitefish Bay, principal and curriculum director in Germantown, principal at Kettle Moraine, District 4K coordinator, K-12 math and gifted and talented administrator, classroom teacher at MPS and Mukwonago, and finally an instructional resource teacher (coach) for Elmbrook. All of these experiences have lead to her dream of being a lifelong learner. Maria has been a member of the WASCD Board since 2010. She is currently the chair of the WASCD New Directors Program along with serving as WASCD's Executive Director.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"Being a life long learner means becoming involved in organizations who feel the same about education and your passion. Who wouldn’t love to be around people whose beliefs are “to achieve success for each learner”? WASCD is dedicated to the whole child and every child!"
Committee Leadership 2021-2022
Ann Franke - Communication Committee Chair
Ann Franke is the Director of Curriculum & Instruction for the School District of Reedsburg. She has been a member of the WASCD board since 2009 and is currently serving as the Chair of the Communication Committee. Previously, Ann has been a high school English teacher, Curriculum Coordinator, the Director of Secondary Education for the Eau Claire Area School District, as well as PreK-12 Director of Curriculum & Instruction for the Verona Area School District.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"Being a member of WASCD has been one of the most professionally rewarding experiences I’ve had. This is a passionate group of educators who care deeply about the children of Wisconsin and the work of WASCD reflects this."
Torrie Rochon-Luft - Program Planning Chair
Torrie Rochon-Luft is the principal at Hortonville Middle School and Fox West Academy. She started her educational career as a 3rd-grade teacher in Shawano then moved to De Pere and became a member of the Unified School District of De Pere for 7 years as a 3⁄4 multiage teacher and 4th-grade teacher. She was a part of staff development, writing curriculum and served on many committees that helped her to grow and flourish~always having a passion for learning, growing and working with kids. After 11 years as a teacher, she became an assistant principal in Menasha at Maplewood Middle School for four wonderful years and then moved into her role as principal at Sabish Middle School for six years of learning, growing and loving a staff completely! She is now in the Hortonville Area School District and couldn’t be happier and prouder to be a part of this wonderful community committed to nurturing all. She feels very blessed to be on the WASCD Board and being a part of the program committee bringing exceptional talent and wisdom to Wisconsin. She enjoys her family very, very much and especially watching her daughter play sports.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"WASCD has provided me excitement in learning over my educational career as a teacher, assistant principal and principal for the last seven years. It is a place where I can learn, take away ideas, be inspired, and develop lasting collaborative relationships. It embodies and fosters inspiration, grit and tenacity in the ever changing landscape of education. Don’t wait another minute, come and see for yourself what all the excitement is about!"
Board of Directors- Members at Large 2022-2023
Rainey Briggs
Rainey Briggs is a dynamic educator who received his bachelor's degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato in Health Science and a minor in Corporate and Community Fitness (2000) and returned to receive his bachelor's degree from UW Madison in education (2006). Dr. Briggs received his master's degree from Viterbo University in Educational Leadership (2009) which then led to the journey to pursue his Doctorate (2018) in education from Edgewood College in Madison, WI. Dr. Briggs has served as a cultural liaison, teacher, principal, Director of Elementary Education, and currently the Superintendent in the Baraboo School District. As an African American boy growing up in poverty, Rainey quickly learned how to advocate for himself and others and has carried that passion over into his daily work. Dr. Briggs obtained his EdD from Edgewood College and wrote a dissertation entitled The Factors that Promote or Impede the Success of African American Males in a Predominately White High School. Dr. Briggs strives to bring a voice to marginalized students and families. As a principal, he collaborated with staff and families to bring the motto "Every Kid, Every Day, Whatever it Takes" at the forefront of their school and a mission to live by daily. Dr. Briggs has worked with many school districts on providing professional development around equity and cultural responsiveness. He is also an adjunct professor at Edgewood College in Madison and Viterbo University in La Crosse. Rainey is a husband to Julie, an educator herself, and the dad to three teenage daughters. When they are not in a gym or on a field, Rainey and his family enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and barbecuing.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"I became involved in WASCD because this provides opportunities for growth not only for me but for all educators that believe in the work to support and provide additional guidance to leaders and educators across the state of Wisconsin. "
Adam Broten
Adam Broten is the Director of Teaching and Learning for the School District of North Fond du Lac. He began his career as an elementary teacher in North Fond du Lac, teaching first and second grade. Later, he served the district as an elementary literacy coach/interventionist and elementary assistant principal. Adam later joined the administrative team in the Oshkosh Area School District as an elementary principal. He then returned to North Fond du Lac as a middle school principal. Adam also works part-time supporting districts and educators across the country with taking a deep dive into standards, standards-based instruction, data analysis, assessment practices, and facilitating conversations around equity/systemic racism. He enjoys being with his family, playing games with his kids, and cheering on Wisconsin sports teams.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"It's energizing to work with and learn from the many great educational minds in our state. I value continually trying to get better as a person and as a professional. WASCD provides those opportunities, not only for myself, but for all educators and leaders in our state. Ultimately, this leads to impactul learning for ALL students."
Kim Brown
Kim Brown is currently the Director of Learning and Communication in the Oshkosh Area School District. Her primary responsibilities include professional development and instructional leadership. Prior to her current position, Kim served as an Elementary Teacher, Curriculum Support Specialist, Principal, Assistant Director of Special Education and Director of Early Learning. Kim has been a board member since 2014.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"From my very first WASCD conference, I was impressed with the professional development, vision of the organization, and the engaging discussions. I am thankful to serve with inspiring and passionate individuals who are committed to success for all students."
Tony Frontier - Special Advisor to the Board
Tony Frontier, PhD is co-author of Five Leavers to Improve Learning: Prioritzing for Powerful Results in Your School (ASCD, 2014) and Effective Supervision: Supporting the Art and Science of Teaching (ASCD, 2011). Tony has been a member of the WASCD board since 2009, and served as president in 2011. Tony is currently the Director of Teacher Education at Cardinal Stritch University.
Beth Galeazzi
Beth Galeazzi is currently the principal at Webster Stanley Elementary in Oshkosh. Prior to her role as a principal, Beth was a classroom teacher and an elementary math coordinator.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"I enjoy being involved with WASCD because it provides an opportunity for me to improve my own innovative learning and advocate for policies and practices that support quality teaching. "
David Grambow
David Grambow is currently the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning in the Hudson School District. His primary responsibilities include curriculum development, professional learning, leadership coaching, and student learning results. He previously served as a teacher, special educator, technology coach, and principal.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
A former colleague and mentor encouraged me to get involved with WASCD when I was a new principal. I found the organization to be forward-focused and inspirational. I appreciate the way in which WASCD continually finds creative ways to support all teachers and ultimately benefit all students in Wisconsin.
Katie Grundahl
Katie Grundahl serves the School District of Jefferson as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction. She has previously served in education as a Math and Science Educator, Assistant Principal, and Principal.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
I am excited and proud to serve WASCD as collaborating through shared learning is the foundation of professional growth. As educational leaders, it is imperative to create a culture of excellence in education. This is done through the belief and expectation that we can change the world.
Nicole Horsley - DPI Liaison
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"I am proud to serve as liaison to WASCD as I fulfill my role as Director of Literacy and Mathematics at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction."
Chris Hansen
Check back for more information!
Kristi Klein
Kristi Klein served as a World Language (Spanish) educator for more than 23 years in various PK-12 urban and suburban settings. In addition, she has acted as a leader in various capacities such as Curriculum Coordinator and Department Head in multiple schools where she taught. Kristi currently serves as principal of a private, Catholic school in Port Washington.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"My mentor inspired me to attend a board meeting as a guest. My experience convinced me that the members and the network of WASCD are comprised of a collective group of educators and critical thinkers committed to ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education and achieve at high levels."
Amy LaPierre
TBA
Eric Larsen
Eric currently serves as the Director of Learning and Assessment for CESA 6. He has been working with school data for many years and provides consulting in ACT, Aspire, Forward and all local assesments. He also is the lead for the CESA 6 Learning and Assessment Center, a collaborative network of curriulum directors and data leaders from districts across the state.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"The professional development provided by WASCD is a valuable resource for all Wisconsin schools. This is a great think tank organization with like-minded people working hard to help Wi schools! "
Peg Mischler
Peg Mischler serves as the Director of Learning for the Winneconne Community School District. She has previously served in education as a special education teacher, classroom teacher, Associate Principal and Curriculum Director. Peg’s practice of continuous improvement includes a combination of having high expectations for herself, staff and students, providing access to high levels of learning, fostering collective efficacy within teams, encouraging positive staff and student relationships, and empowering others to take ownership of their learning. She believes these are the factors that most contribute to student success.
Why did I become involved:
“I wanted to join a team of professionals who have the same desire to continuously improve our education system. Being a part of WASCD provides me the opportunities to network with educators throughout the state, improving both my practice and theirs - which will improve the success of all our students.”
Amanda Patza
TBA
Kelly Ryder
Kelly Ryder has been the Director of Curriculum and Programs for the Hayward Community School District since 2017. She also serves on the State Superintendent's AODA Advisory Committee and on the Accountability Advisory Group for DPI. Prior to her working at Hayward, Kelly worked at CESAs 11 and 12 supporting northern Wisconsin schools in areas such as educator effectiveness, curriculum, safe and healthy schools, and school improvement. Kelly also worked as a member of the state's WISExplore team, leading school teams in data-informed continuous improvement processes. Kelly started her career as a high school social studies teacher in the Cumberland School District in 1996.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"I became involved in WASCD for many reasons. In northern Wisconsin, where I work, very few schools are fortunate enough to be able to have a Director of Curriculum. As I learned my new role, it was important to me to be able to network with others that had similar roles across our state. I also believe that the role of curriculum is changing and I am excited to help to lead that change in our state. "
Chris Van Hoof - Historian
Chris Van Hoof has been a member of the WASCD Board since 2006, where she participated on the Program Committee before being elected as President in 2011. She is currently on the board as the historian. Chris retired in 2021 from CESA 8 as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment (CIA). Prior to her last position, she was a director of CIA and a high school English teacher for 28 years. Chris has served on a variety of Wisconsin State Tasks Forces, particularly those involving ELA.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?
"A friend tapped me on the shoulder and encouraged me to join. He believed WASCD had some great things to offer me, and I had a few skills to offer to WASCD in return. He was absolutely right. I’m really glad I listened to him!"
Peter Wilson
Dr. Peter Wilson is a leader and educator with a passion for equity and excellence. Throughout his career, he has experience at all the different levels of a school system. Currently, he is the Director of Administrative Services for the DeForest Area School District in DeForest, Wisconsin, a suburban district of Madison, Wisconsin. Previously, he served as Director of Student Services for the Stoughton Area School District in Wisconsin. He has also served as middle school and elementary principal. Prior to his administrative roles, Dr. Wilson served as classroom teacher, mentor and high school tennis coach in the Waunakee Community School District. Peter holds a PhD and MS degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, he has an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Grand Valley State University.
Why did you become involved in WASCD?